U.S. Child Passport Photo Requirements and Size
Getting a passport for your child requires a specific photo that meets strict rules set by the U.S. Department of State. You can prepare and format this photo easily using the tool above.
Official Size and Dimensions
The official size for a U.S. child passport photo is 51×51 mm, which translates to 2.01×2.01 inches[1]. When you print the final image for your paperwork, it measures exactly 2 by 2 inches[2].
A very important part of this requirement is the head height. The head height must be measured precisely from the bottom of the chin to the top of the head[1]. This distance needs to fall strictly between 25.4 and 34.925 mm[1]. If the head is too large or too small within the frame, the issuing office may reject the application. Getting these measurements correct right from the start helps your paperwork move forward without delay.
Background and Lighting Setup
The U.S. Department of State strictly requires a plain white or off-white background[1]. You can easily create this at home without buying special studio gear. Find a smooth wall in your home and hang a clean white sheet or poster board against it. Make sure there are no patterns, textures, or shadows visible behind your child.
Good lighting is just as important as the background color. Face your child toward a bright, natural light source like a large window to eliminate dark shadows under the chin or eyes. Avoid using harsh overhead lights that create uneven spots or glare on the wall.
Facial Expression and Pose Rules
Your child must maintain a neutral expression with both eyes open and the mouth completely closed[1]. Do not allow your child to smile broadly, laugh, or make silly faces during the picture. Passport control officers look for a natural, everyday appearance that matches the person in real life.
The child must face the camera directly with their shoulders square to the lens[2]. Remember that no other person may appear in the photo under any circumstances[2]. If you need to position your child, keep your hands, arms, and clothing entirely out of the frame.
Special Guidelines for Infants and Babies
Photographing a baby can be tricky because young infants cannot follow standard posing instructions. Infants should look toward the camera with their eyes open as much as possible[2].
If your baby cannot sit up independently yet, you have a helpful option available. You can lay them flat on their back on the floor or a bed. A plain white or off-white sheet may be used as the background when photographing infants this way[2]. Make sure you stand directly above the baby to take the shot straight down. Never include car seats, toys, hands, or pacifiers in the picture frame.
Glasses, Hair, and Headwear
Many families wonder about accessories like glasses and headwear in official identification pictures. Glasses are not allowed in U.S. passport photos, so your child must take them off completely before you snap the picture[1].
Headwear is strictly prohibited unless it is worn daily for religious or medical reasons[1]. If your child wears a head covering for these specific purposes, it must not hide any part of the face from the tip of the chin to the top of the forehead. Hair should be brushed away from the face so that the eyes and the edges of the face remain fully visible.
Printing and Application Process
U.S. child passport applications require a physical, printed photo rather than a digital upload[2]. You will need one recent color photo printed at the correct size[2].
You can use the tool above to crop your picture to the required 51×51 mm dimensions and arrange it neatly onto a standard 4x6-inch photo sheet[1]. Take this file to a local retail store or photo kiosk and print it out on ordinary glossy or matte photo paper. Once printed, carefully cut out the square photo with scissors. Keep in mind that the child must apply in person with required parent or guardian participation[2].
Frequently asked questions
Can I hold my baby in the passport photo?
No other person may appear in the photo, so you cannot hold your child or have your hands visible in the frame[2].
What color should the background be?
The background must be a plain white or off-white background[1].
Are glasses allowed for children?
No, glasses are not allowed in U.S. passport photos[1].
How many photos do I need to submit?
You need to submit one recent color photo printed 2 x 2 inches[2].
Can my child wear a hat in the photo?
Headwear is permitted only for religious or medical reasons, and it must not obscure the face from the chin to the top of the head[1].